Hybrid Reporter

at Hearst Health

• Job title: Reporter
• Job type: Full Time
• Experience level: Mid level, Senior
• Salary: $35,360 per year
• Degree requirement: Bachelor's Degree
• Location requirements: Hybrid, Alton, United States

About the role

• General Assignment Reporter focusing on local news coverage and impactful community-focused reporting at The Telegraph in Alton, Illinois. Seeking passionate, ambitious journalists eager to tell stories that matter.

Responsibilities

• Cover key local issues with a focus on government, business, and community impact. Produce clear, engaging stories for digital and print platforms.
• Develop deeper, context-rich stories that go beyond the news of the day to explain why issues matter and how they affect local readers.
• Jump on breaking news as needed, providing timely, accurate reporting and updates.
• Cover evening or nighttime public meetings periodically, filing clean, quick-turn stories on tight deadlines.
• Report on crime and public safety stories as needed, ensuring accuracy, context, and sensitivity.
• Use photos, videos, live updates, and other digital tools to enhance coverage and engage audiences.
• Work closely with editors, writers, and other newsroom teams to produce impactful journalism.
• Monitor local and regional news, social media trends, and reader interests to identify strong story opportunities.

Requirements

• A portfolio of published stories (student publications or professional outlets accepted).
• Ability to write with clarity, accuracy, and authority.
• Strong sense of what makes a compelling local story that resonates with readers.
• A self-starter eager to learn, pitch ideas, and pursue stories independently.
• Willingness to work with editors and peers in a fast-paced, evolving newsroom.
• A bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or a related field preferred, but equivalent experience and published work will also be considered.
• Familiarity with digital publishing, multimedia tools, and social media is a plus.
• Must be based in the region or willing to relocate.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Competitive retirement plan with employer match in most markets
• Generous Paid Time Off, including holidays and vacation
• Paid Parental Leave for new parents
• Monthly Child & Dependent Care Reimbursement
• Mental wellness benefits
• LGBTQ+ & inclusive health services
• Fertility coverage & menopause support
• Pet wellness reimbursement & Rover credits
• And more — click here for full benefits details.